"Ugo received immediate treatment after suffering a cardiac arrest at the training centre yesterday before being transferred to hospital, where he passed away in the early hours of the morning."

Ehiogu made 355 Premier League appearances during spells at Aston Villa and Middlesbrough, winning the League Cup with both clubs, as well as earning four England caps and scoring once, against Spain.

He also enjoyed spells with Leeds United, Rangers and Sheffield United.

Spurs continued: "The club sends its deepest condolences to Ugo's family.

"Gemma has specifically asked that the family are given privacy at this difficult time.

"We should also like to place on record our thanks to all the medical professionals including those at North Middlesex University Hospital, Royal Brompton Hospital and Harefield Hospital for their care and support."

Villa, for whom the defender played over 300 times, hailed Ehiogu as "a tower of strength" and confirmed plans for a minute's applause before Sunday's second-city derby against Birmingham City.